LATEST REVIEWS BY THE POPCORN PANEL
No-holds-barred reviews of movies, TV series, and streaming shows by Alex Cearns. 

WE WERE DANGEROUS

Set in New Zealand in 1956, a group of twelve delinquent girls are sent to a remote island school, where they are trained to for marriage and morherhood. Amidst the harsh conditions, their daily life is filled with chores and scripture lessons, overseen by the strict and imposing Matron, portrayed by Rima Te Wiata. Three of the girls, Nellie, Daisy, and Lou, forge a strong friendship and rise up against the oppressive institutional environment. The performances are endearing and the scenery is stunning. My only criticism is that it felt too short. I was invested in the characters and wanted to see more of the story unfold.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

PROTECTION

Detective Inspector Liz Nyles (Siobhan Finneran) works in witness protection. SPOILER ALERT! Her world is turned upside down when two adults residing in one of her safe houses are murdered and her colleague Detective Sergeant Paul Brandice (Barry Ward) is shot. Liz had been having an affair with Brandice and he should not have had access to the safe house’s location. The murders prompt an internal investigation and Liz is put in a precarious position as she tries to protect the victims’ 12-year-old daughter while working to prove her own innocence and determine who is behind the killings. As tensions rise every officer becoming a potential suspect and mistrust grows. The police incompetence and disregard for the rules is frustrating, yet the cast delivers convincing performances, with Finneran shining in the lead role. The final episode was a bit confusing and frustrating, with a convoluted bunch of revelations and everything being too neatly tidied up without much consequence. Decent British drama.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

NIGHTB*TCH

Amy Adams stars as Mother, a former artist who struggles with resentment over sacrificing her career to raise her son, Baby. She feels like she’s lost her identity and is overwhelmed with household responsibilities while her husband works away. Strange physical occurrences begin to manifest in her body and she is plagued by bizarre dreams where she transforms into a dog at night and roams the streets. Do her dreams cross over into reality or is the entire movie a metaphor for seeking change? SPOILER ALERT! The answer is left to the viewer. More dark comedy than horror, Adam’s is fabulous and captures her character’s profound love for Baby and her raging need for freedom. A crazy ride.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

NEVER LET GO

A woman named Momma (Halle Berry) lives in a remote forest with her young twin sons, Nolan (Percy Daggs IV) and Samuel (Anthony B. Jenkins). She instills in them the belief that the world has been overtaken by a supernatural force known as ‘The Evil,’ and insists they remain tethered together with rope whenever they leave their cottage to prevent ‘The Evil’ from harming them. As winter approaches and food becomes scarce, Momma’s violent visions intensify. Soon Nolan begins to question if Mommas claims are real, causing everything to quickly go pear-shaped. While child actors Daggs and Jenkins deliver commendable performances and the forest scenes are moody and menacing, the rest of the film is mediocre and the end is disappointing. The only character I really cared about was the dog.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3.5/10

LOVER, STALKER, KILLER

This true crime documentary chronicles the harrowing experience of David Kroupa, a mechanic from Omaha, Nebraska, who ventured into online dating for the first time in 2012. Through the ‘Plenty of Fish’ app he met, and began dating, Liz Goylar. A few moths later he simultaneously began seeing Cari Farver, informing both women that he was not wanting anything serious. Just two weeks into their relationship, Farver disappeared and commenced a four-year-long stalking campaign directed at David and Liz, that eventually escalated to include arson, death threats, a shooting, and murder. The story is recollected through interviews with David, his ex wife, Farver’s mother, police investigators and prosecutors involved in the case. There’s a shocking plot twist that shows the extreme lengths some individuals will take to exact vengeance. Although justice was finally served in 2017, additional footage from the trial would’ve rounded out the otherwise compelling content. A gripping and unsettling account of obsession and its dire consequences.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED

A romantic comedy featuring Will Ferrell as the widowed father of one bride and Reese Witherspoon as the black-sheep sister of another. When they inadvertently double-book the same wedding venue, a series of chaotic events unfolds, leading to mishaps and sabotage as their efforts to co-share the space spiral out of control. Featuring a fun supporting cast and a few good laughs, seasoned comedy professionals Ferrell and Witherspoon shine in their performances, yet lack believable chemistry together – they feel like old friends. Typical of the rom com genre of the early 2000’s, this film is a lighthearted, enjoyable escape.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT

During World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion was formed, comprising 855 women from the Black Women’s Army Corps under the steely leadership of Captain Charity Adams (Kerry Washington). Deployed to Birmingham, England, the battalion was tasked with addressing a backlog of 17 million military letters within a challenging six-month timeframe – an endeavor that had previously proven insurmountable for a white women’s unit and had negatively impacted soldier morale.Despite facing severe living conditions and enduring discrimination and prejudice from white male officers, the 6888th accomplished their mission in an impressive 90 days. Directed by Tyler Perry, this film highlights the extraordinary efforts, teamwork, and resilience of these women who played a pivotal role in supporting the military during the war. I shed a tear a few times and am grateful that the 6888 finally got the recognition they deserved in 2022 (70 years after the fact!) when they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Boss ladies!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

BACK IN ACTION

Former CIA spies Matt (Jamie Foxx) and Emily (Cameron Diaz) are forced to emerge from hiding after going awol from their jobs 15 years earlier. They are pursued to England, along with their children, by a group of bad guys trying to locate a key that Matt stashed on the estate of Emily’s mother (Glenn Close).

Yes, you have to suspend belief and ignore some plot holes but we laughed all the way though and found it to be fun, easy-going viewing. Foxx and Diaz carry the movie and have fabulous chemistry. They’re both great at combining action and comedy and pull off some speccy stunts. Liked it more than I expected to.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

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CARPOOL KARAOKE: CHRISTMAS EDITION

In this special holiday edition, James Corden hands the wheel over to New Zealand radio DJ Zane Lowe, who tries hard but is uncharismatic. The episode begins with a visit to Chappell Roan in Missouri, followed by Dua Lipa in Japan, and Lady Gaga in Los Angeles. Staying true to the traditional carpool karaoke format, the artists sing their popular songs alongside the host as they are driven around.

The segments featuring Chappell Roan and Lady Gaga were my favourites. Chappell’s parents accompany her for part of the journey, and she opens up about her challenging upbringing in the Midwest. We are also introduced to her two best friends, who affectionately still call her Kaylee. Lady Gaga impresses with her kindness and generosity, and impressively undergoes three outfit changes.

This is a timely watch, as Chappell Roan has just secured the number one song on Triple J’s Hottest 100 with “Good Luck, Babe!” which received the highest number of votes in the competition’s history. Although the host is average the rest gets pulled up thanks to interesting insight into three singing superstars.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

THE APPRENTICE

An insight into the young adult life of Donald Trump (Sebastian Stan) during the 1979’s and 80’s. It chronicles his friendship with bullish, unscrupulous lawyer Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong)who taught him to always attack, always counterattack, and never apologise.

If the mentor makes the man, Cohn certainly played a huge part in the creation of today’s Donald Trump.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

THE LATER DATERS

This reality TV dating show offers a refreshing departure from the typical influencer demographic, featuring contestants over the age of 50 who are looking for love. Centred on the experiences of six divorcees, the program provides a unique perspective on romance in later life. While I was less engaged with some of the participants (a few of them are set in their ways and resistant to any form of change) two in particular had me cheering on from the sidelines. Not earth shattering but an easy watch to pass time.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.5/10

THE BRUTALIST

Commencing in 1947, Hungarian-born revolutionary architect László Tóth (Adrian Brody) immigrates to Philadelphia to start a new life. His soon crosses paths with wealthy businessman Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce) and his son Harry (Joe Alwyn) and they commission him to design a large community centre.

Eventually his wife Erzsébet (Felicity Jones) and niece Zsófia (Raffey Cassidy) join him in the USA and all three reside on the sprawling Lee Van Buren estate. However, as Tóth grapples with drug addiction and becomes fixated on the completion of his design, his mental state begins to unravel.

Shot on 70mm film and split into three parts (Part 1: The Enigma of Arrival, Part 2: The Hard Core of Beauty and Epilogue: The First Architecture Biennale) the film spans 3 hours 35 minutes, including a 15 minute mid-way intermission.

The engaging plot, exceptional acting and compelling character development makes the lengthy run time fly by. Oscar’s buzz is swirling, in part thanks to the dynamic performances of Brody and Pearce. Director Brady Corbet said it best in his acceptance speech when ‘The Brutalist’ won Best Dramatic Film at the recent Golden Globes – “No one was asking for a three-and-a-half hour film about a midcentury designer on 70 millimeter. But it works.” Yes it does and you won’t be bored.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

CONCLAVE

With the passing of the Pope, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is responsible for overseeing the election of the new pontiff. As the cardinals convene to cast their votes, issues of deceit, bribery, and political maneuvering arise, putting Cardinal Lawrence in a stressful position as he strives to uphold the integrity of the conclave. Fiennes delivers an outstanding performance as measured, ethical Lawrence, a man heavily burdened by his responsibility. The supporting cast is also superb and includes esteemed actors Isabella Rossellini as Sister Agnes, Stanley Tucci as Cardinal Bellini, and John Lithgow as Cardinal Tremblay. Mesmerising cinematography, incorporating the use of color, leading lines, and shadows, creates unforgettable visuals – like the striking overhead shot of the cardinals walking beneath their umbrellas, reminiscent of a scene that would be perfectly at home in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’ Numerous plot twists and the constant tension between cardinals held my attention and I’ve never been so invested in a subject I have no care for. The nuanced criticism of the church in the final reveal is deftly handled and the reveal itself is something I didn’t see coming. Director Edward Berger has created a masterpiece from beginning to end, deserving of its recent Golden Globe award for Best Screenplay. Brilliant!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

Kelly’s score 8/10

Steve’s score 8.5/10

JAMIE FOXX: WHAT HAPPENED WAS

In his return to television and stand up comedy, Jamie Foxx opens up for the first time about the life threatening medical emergency he experienced in April 2023. Wracked with emotion, he shares details of incident that saw him in a coma for 20 days and the part his strong faith played in his recovery. The first 20 minutes is repetitive (Atlanta saved his life, we get it!) but then he shifts gears into great storytelling. He delivers hilarious punchlines, can hold a tune and has a talent for impersonations – his Mike Tyson take-off was brilliant. I laughed out loud several times and thoroughly enjoyed how the live audience showed their support through song, dance and chants. Worth checking out.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

JERRY SPRINGER: FIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

The ‘Jerry Springer Show’ ran for 27 seasons from 1991 until 2018 and at its peak was one of the most watched programs in America. A tabloid talk show known for its sensationalist topics and confrontational format, it featured guests who engaged in anger-fuelled disputes about relationships, family issues, and personal scandals. With an iconic catchphrase of “Take care of yourselves and each other,” the show became a cultural phenomenon, devoid of ethics and capitalising on outrageous, chaotic and often violent moments for entertainment. This two part doco exposes the way executive producer Richard Dominick stopped at nothing to fuel the shows trashy trajectory, and how guests were manipulated and incited to rage in front of the cameras, raising questions about a duty of care, especially in the wake of a murder linked to a guest appearance. Was Springer (who died in 2023) complicit or just doing his job? Shocking and eye opening.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

PADDINGTON IN PERU

It’s been 7 years since the last Paddington movie and it was worth the wait. The latest instalment was filmed in Columbia and Peru and brings the charm and whimsy of Paddington to life through motion capture and CGI. When Paddington arrives in Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy and discovers she’s missing, he sets off on a quest across the Amazon quest to find her, with the Brown family in tow. Starring Hugh Bonneville, Olivia Colman (always brilliant!), Antonio Banderas and Ben Whishaw (as the voice of Paddington) this delightful film is filled with humour, adventure and uplifting messages. The tarantula scene on the plane is hilarious (and that’s saying a lot coming from an arachnophobe) and hearing Olivia Coleman singing ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ is a hoot. An enjoyable family romp.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

NOSFERATU

The opening scene of this movie was so unappealing I almost walked out. It gave me the feeling that everything to follow was going to be rubbish … and sure enough, most of it was. On a positive note, the cinematography perfectly captured the dark and atmospheric mood of the Gothic horror genre. Nicholas Hoult was commendable as newlywed Thomas Hutter. The sound effects, particularly the unsettling slurping during the blood-drinking scenes, added to the creepy ambiance. And thankfully all 5,000 live rats used on set survived, unharmed. However, the rest of the film left much to be desired. Bill Skarsgård, whom I loved as Pennywise the Clown in ‘It,’ played the grotesque Count Orlok and everything about his character irritated me. He really needed faster speech, an oxygen tank, some clothes and a pair of nail clippers. Lily-Rose Depp (as Thomas’s wife Ellen) was dreadful and spent most of the film in wide-eyed hysteria and exaggerated convulsions. The plot was tedious and some parts were so absurd I wondered whether the tone had shifted to comedy. Other scenes were revolting but felt like they were added for shock value rather than the further the story. I even found myself taking a few micro-naps and it’s been decades since I’ve fallen asleep during a movie. Yeah I hated it. Die-hard Dracula fans might fare better.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3/10

A MAN ON THE INSIDE

Ted Danson stars as Charles, a recent widower and retired professor who goes undercover for a private investigator at an upscale aged care facility. He’s tasked with tracking down a thief who’s stolen an expensive necklace from a resident. Struggling with the recent loss of his wife and feeling as though he is merely existing rather than living, Charles initially accepts the assignment to occupy his time. He soon discovers much more in this charming series that delves into the challenges of aging, the isolation of loneliness, and the significance friendship. Moments of lightheartedness are mixed with deeper emotional themes resulting in a lovely balance of comedy and drama. Enjoyable and easy to watch. Has been renewed for season two.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

THE ROOM NEXT DOOR

Adapted from the novel ‘What Are You Going Through by Sigrid Nunez, ‘The Room Next Door’ is Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar’s first full-length English film. Old friends Martha (a former war correspondent played by Tilda Swinton) and Ingrid (a successful author played by Julianne Moore) reconnect when Martha is diagnosed with terminal cancer. She invites Ingrid to be with her “In the next room” when she ends her life through euthanasia. Martha’s damaged relationship with her daughter Michelle resurfaces as she navigates her final days with Ingrid. Heavy on dialogue about past memories, life and death, their conversations felt stilted and didn’t flow, as if they were translated from a different language. While I admired Martha’s bravery in choosing to end her life on her own terms, I struggled to form an emotional connection with her or Ingrid – the depth just wasn’t there. The use of Swinton as three different characters (Martha, young Martha, and Michelle) felt like lazy casting. Despite the experienced lead actresses and thought provoking theme, I found this production to be mundane and lacklustre. The stunning country property and the rich shade of plum lipstick deserve a mention though.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

Kelly’s score 6.9/10

Steve’s score 7/10

SQUID GAME – Season 2

Following on from the success of its first season, which remains the most-watched show in Netflix history, season two of “Squid Game” raised in 68 million views within the first four days of its debut, smashing the previous record set by “Wednesday.” However, the similarities don’t just end with viewer milestones – the initial six of the seven episodes feel like a carbon copy of series one, only the element of surprise has gone second time around. SPOILER ALERT! The winner of the first series, Gi-Hun (Lee Jung-jae) reenters the game and we are introduced to stereotypical players and protagonists similar to those from the original go-around. The sets are the same and the format is the same, though we do get a glimpse into the lives of the staff who run the facility. Some of the games have changed too but the penalty for failing then is still death. Much of the screen time is consumed with players voting to stay or leave and nothing new really happens until episode seven kicks off. Seasons two and three were filmed concurrently, for a total of 20 episodes, with director Hwang Dong-hyuk deciding to split them at the conclusion of Episode Seven. As a result, season two ends with approximately 100 players remaining and concludes on a cliffhanger. Let’s hope the final 13 episodes will bring it home in a way that honours season one.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

BIRDEATER

This confronting and gritty film explores the dynamics between a group of young Australian men who gather at a remote country house for a bachelor party. The bride-to-be, invited by her fiancé, attends alongside a female acquaintance, adding a layer of tension to the event. As the night unfolds and excessive amounts of drugs and alcohol are consumed, past transgressions resurface, and underlying tensions among the friends come to light. Themes of toxic masculinity, psychological abuse and infidelity further complicate the night’s festivities. The dark visuals and pounding soundtrack create to a moody atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge, uncertain of what will happen next. Not all of the questions are answered but the underlying assumptions are clear. You’ll feel uncomfortable the entire time and that’s the intention.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.9/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

QUIZ LADY

Awkwafina and Sandra Oh star as sisters Anne and Jenny Yum in this delightful comedy. Anne is introverted and organised, while Jenny leads a more chaotic and disheveled lifestyle. The plot unfolds when their mother takes off from her aged care facility to go to Macau, leaving behind an $80,000 gambling debt. When Ken, a loan shark, holds Anne’s pug Mr. Linguini as leverage against the debt, the sisters must collaborate to secure the necessary funds. Anne, who has meticulously watched the quiz show “Can’t Stop the Quiz” every night since she was eight, views the host Terry McTeer (Will Ferrell, who also serves as producer) as a distant father figure. With her exceptional skill at answering quiz questions from her couch, she eventually finds the courage to audition for the live show, pitting herself against reigning champion Ron in a bid to raise the $80,000. Made for a television only release ‘Quiz Lady’ won a Primetime Emmy for ‘Outstanding television movie’ and a Critics Choice Award for ‘Best Movie Made for Television’. Rollicking, with good humour and strong chemistry between the leads, this is an easy, pleasant watch.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

GAVIN AND STACEY – SEASON 1, 2, 3 and 2 CHRISTMAS SPECIALS

Premiering in 2007, “Gavin and Stacey” ended with a 2024 Christmas special that captivated audiences, drawing 12.3 million viewers on the BBC alone – the highest overnight figure for a Christmas Day show since 2008’s “Wallace & Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death.” The series follows the intertwined lives of Stacey (Joanna Page) from Wales and Gavin (Matthew Horne) from Britain, and subsequent relationships with their eclectic families and friends. Created by, and starring, James Corden (as knock-about lad Smithy) and Ruth Jones (a stand out as stoic and loyal Nessa), the characters are lovable and relatable. Witty writing provides the superb cast with a wealth of humorous material, which is delivered with comedic brilliance and complemented by their spontaneous ad-libbing. With an abundance of heart, “Gavin and Stacey” is a defining series of the past two decades, leaving a mark on television culture with memorable catch phrases such as “What’s occurring?”, “Tidy,” and “Crackin’.” This iconic show will long live on thanks to its huge fan base. The end of an era. Binge it.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

SONIC 3

Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Knuckles (Idris Elba) and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) join forces to form ‘Team Sonic’ as they confront a formidable new enemy, Shadow (voiced by Keanu Reeves.) Shadow, a disgruntled hedgehog who landed on Earth in a meteorite decades ago, poses a significant threat to human kind and is hell bent on revenge after escaping 50 years of incarceration. In their quest to obtain a second key for a powerful weapon, the Team Sonic embarks on a daring mission to infiltrate G.U.N. headquarters in London. Along the way, they encounter the villainous Doctor Ivo Robotnik and his grandfather, Gerald Robotnik, both brilliantly portrayed by Jim Carrey. Vibrant animation brings these beloved characters back to life, while the film emphasises themes of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance. Given free rein to ad lib on set, Carrey delivers highly comical, over the top (in a good way!) performances in his dual roles and the dance sequence half way through is absolutely hilarious. He is a 10/10. There’s enough in this film to engage adults as well as kids. See it in 4DX for an added thrill!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

ANORA

Brooklyn exotic dancer Ani (short for Anora, played by Mikey Madison) impulsively marries her wealthy client Ivan (Mark Eidelstein) in Las Vegas, thinking she has found her dream life. Sound familiar? Rest assured, this is where all similarities to 1990’s ‘Pretty Woman’ end. Things take a turn when Anora discovers Ivan is the son of a Russian oligarch. After Ivan’s mother finds out about their wedding, she insists it’s annulled and sets off for New York to make it happen. The oligarch’s henchmen are tasked with taking Anora and Ivan to the courthouse, but when Ivan runs away to avoid responsibility, a race against time begins to locate him. The frequent humour amid the chaos is perfectly placed and the acting is superb. The character of Anora is a stand out with her fearless grit and empowered attitude. She’s a woman in control and is not one to be messed with. Writer / director Sean Baker is known for his views on decriminalising and destigmatising s*x work and many of his films are about the lives of marginalised subjects. Awarded the ‘Palme d’Or’ at Cannes this year, my only gripe is the long run time which would’ve benefited from a tighter edit.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Saraj’s score 7/10

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WICKED – PART ONE

‘Wicked’ is the first installment of a two-part film adaptation of the acclaimed stage production of the same name, which is inspired by the iconic 1939 film ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ It covers the first act of the musical, exploring the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West, originally known as Elphaba, and how she came to be viewed as, well, wicked. The film’s production is spectacular, with breathtaking sets that transport you directly into the enchanting land of Oz. The elaborate costumes deserve to win several ‘Best Costume’ awards, while the CGI throughout is seamless. The musical numbers are captivating, particularly those of lead actresses Ariana Grande (as Glinda) and Cynthia Erivo (as Elphaba.) Their powerful vocal performances convincingly bring their characters to life – not once did I feel like they were acting. I’ve never been a huge Ariana Grande fan but she was born for this role and Eviro’s on screen presence is a forced to be reckoned with. The ensemble cast has extraordinary talent as well, showcased during their impressive song and dance performances. It’s a phenomenal production that holds your attention for its entire 160 minute run time and leaves you wanting more. A magical experience! Part two is due for release in November 2025.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

A REAL PAIN

American cousins David and Benji (Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin) embark on a group tour to Poland to explore their heritage and learn about the Holocaust in memory of their grandmother. The cousins are polar opposites: David is composed, methodical, employed and married with a child, while Benji is a chaotic, brash stoner who likes to break rules and is single and unemployed. Once close, they’ve drifted apart over the years and hope this trip will help them reconnect. Both actors are outstanding and Culkin’s portrayal of Benji, constantly switching between manic energy and somber reflection, is brilliant – even Oscar worthy. The supporting cast, which includes Jennifer Grey of ‘Dirty Dancing’ fame, also shines. The film balances its heavier themes with lighter moments and Eisenberg’s heartfelt writing (combined with his direction) sees the title open for interpretation in several ways, until its actual meaning becomes clear in the final melancholic scene. A sentimental reflection on the complexities family dynamics and the human condition.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

SHRINKING: SEASON 1 and 2

Brilliant character development and an exceptional cast make this engaging viewing. Psychiatrist Jimmy (Jason Segel) and his daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell) are learning how to navigate their relationship after Jimmys wife Tia is killed by a drunk driver. Harrison Ford plays Jimmys snarky and bitter boss Paul with absolute authenticity. He delivers a plethora of cutting one liners (mostly to Jimmy) with impeccable comedic timing. It’s fun seeing him go against type. There are many laugh out loud moments thanks to the witty writing, and each character is affectionately accepted, despite their realistic flaws. My one casting criticism is Brett Goldstein, one of the shows creators (along with Bill Lawrence and Jason Segel.) His portrayal of Lewis, a man grappling with depression and a sense of hopelessness, is occasionally undermined by Goldstein’s tendency to smirk during serious moments. Series two starts off slowly and initially piggy backs of the sub plots of its predecessor, but it builds strongly towards the last few episodes and the finale will bring a tear to your eye. Easy to binge.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.9/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

SHAUN THE SHEEP: A FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

From the team behind ‘Wallace and Grommet’ comes this humorous 30 minute Christmas special. When Timmy the lamb goes missing, Shaun and the flock set off to rescue him and find themselves having several adventures along the way. The stop motion animation is superb in this dialogue free, playful spin off.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9.5/10

NO GOOD DEED

Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano team up as husband and wife (Lydia and Paul Morgan) in this dark comedy, which has more tragedy than laughs. A few years after the death of their teenage son, they put their house on the market. Three couples are desperate to purchase it and start pestering the Morgans, but skeletons soon begin to come out of everyone’s closets and chaos reigns. I found the stereotypes of the pushy mother in law, washed up soapie actor, criminal brother, and gay guy (real estate agent) overdone and their acting a bit much. On the other hand, the performances by Kudrow and Romano were brilliant. They carried the whole series as grieving parents and apparently ad libbed some of their dialogue. It’s no ‘Dead to me’ (same creator and writer in Liz Feldman) but is a passable watch thanks to some twists and turns.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

BEFORE

In a departure from his usual roles, Billy Crystal is psychiatrist Eli, who takes on a young patient named Noah (Jacobi Jupe). Noah experiences strange visions that he thinks are real and acts visibly haunted. As Eli grapples with the recent suicide of his wife (played by Judith Light as Lynn) he begins to unravel and starts to believe he is somehow connected to Noah. Sitting through ten episodes of this series was a struggle and truth be told, I wanted to quit after the first two. I hung in there, hoping it would finish strongly, but it didn’t. The pacing was slow, the content felt repetitive, and the plot was dull and illogical. I didn’t care for any of the characters, who were underdeveloped thanks to subpar writing. The ending was fanciful and silly. Such a disappointment.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3/10

Amanda’s Score 2/10

MUFASA: THE LION KING

Disney delivers! When displaced lion cub Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) meets fellow cub Taka (Kevin Harrison Jr) he finds a brother from another mother. They grow up together and embark on a dangerous journey across Tanzania to the Pride Lands – Mufasas true home. With a lively African musical score, stunning photo-realistic animation and beautiful attention to detail, this is an engaging and enjoyable prequel to ‘The Lion King’. There were moments where I did a double take, unsure if a few of the animals, particularly the antelope and bees, were real. Some of the running motion filmed from above was slightly stilted but it was easily forgiven thanks to the standard of everything else. My favourite song was “Bye Bye” sung by Kiros (Mads Mikkelsen) the white lion leader of ‘The Outsiders, as a way of threatening to k*ll Mufasa and Taka. Yes, some animals die, but their deaths are implied and not graphic – a refreshing change from the gorefests we’ve become accustomed to. Won’t take points off for Beyoncé and her nepo-baby daughter Blue Ivy Carter voicing two characters (Nala and Kiara respectively), but only because they did a decent job. Watch it on the big screen for a fully immersive experience.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 10/10

OUR LITTLE SECRET

Lindsay Lohan’s three movie deal with Netflix concludes with the release of this Christmas rom-com. Lohan stars as Avery, a business advisor who joins her new boyfriend’s family for the holidays, only to discover that his sister is dating her ex, Logan (played by Ian Harding). Following a tumultuous breakup a decade prior, they choose to keep their past relationship a secret and pretend they don’t know each other. Lohan is convincing as Avery, although it’s not much of a stretch as the role doesn’t require significant acting range. The plot is predictable and while it doesn’t break any new ground, it’s neither the worst, nor the best, of its genre. It just sits somewhere in the middle.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.9/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

MOANA 2

Moana is back in an action packed quest to unite displaced people who’ve been scattered across the ocean. Colourful visuals and witty dialogue abound in this fun but formulaic sequel, with Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson lending their voices as leads Moana and Maui. Amusing chicken sidekick HeiHei delivers much of the wholesome humor, alongside the Kakamora coconut soldier who accompanies Moana and her crew on their journey. Part musical, the songs are uplifting but won’t be remembered once the credits roll. With an incredible box office performance of $700 million worldwide, projected to soon exceed $1 billion dollars, this film certainly appeals to young viewers, but it doesn’t measure up to the emotional depth and well-rounded storytelling of “The Wild Robot”, which resonates with audiences of all ages. Take your kids.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

CARRY-ON

It’s Christmas Eve and LAX is packed with over 60,000 travellers. Transport Security Officer Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton) gets compromised when an unnamed character (played by Jason Bateman) threatens the safety of his finance if he doesn’t let a bag containing a bo*b pass through screening. The bad guys have tapped into the airports cctv cameras and can follow Kopeks every move. A few people get kil*ed and a chaotic game of cat and mouse ensues. With many far-fetched scenes (like the one where Kopek opens the cargo hold door of a moving aircraft from the outside while it’s taxiing along the runway!) it felt a bit like a poor man’s ’Die Hard’. On the plus side, it wasn’t slow, even if the plot challenges the limits of credibility. Labeled as a thriller, it didn’t provide any thrills but check it out if you prefer action over realism.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.5/10

Amanda’s Score 5/10

BETTER MAN

“Fame makes monkeys of us all” proclaims the tagline for “Better Man,” the highly anticipated biopic of Robbie Williams. Director Michael Gracey (‘The Greatest Showman’) delivers with breathtaking visuals and remarkable computer-generated imagery, depicting Williams as a chimpanzee throughout the entire film. It serves as a metaphor for how Williams perceives himself – as “less evolved” than others. The integration of CGI Robbie into various real-world settings is seamless thanks to expertly matched lighting and the brilliant motion capture work of Jonno Davies. The film chronicles Williams’ journey from childhood to his meteoric rise to fame, and his subsequent downward spiral as he falls into the grip of drugs, alcohol and depression. All of his hit songs are featured and several fast paced dance numbers are smashed out with Williams’ demons riding on his back. There’s also his tumultuous relationship with his father Peter Conway and his band members in ‘Take That’ plus a lot of F and C bombs. It’s an insane ride that you wouldn’t believe was true if it wasn’t Williams’ actual life. Yes he’s an entertainer but he’s also a survivor. This has to be a shoe-in for a major special effects award or two. See it on the big screen to appreciate its epic sound and imagery.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

FORTUNE FEIMSTER: CRUSHING IT

American comedian Fortune Feimster brings her third stand up special to streaming. Unlike her previous shows, this one felt more rehearsed than improvised, the latter being where she really shines. At least one of the main jokes was recycled material and some of others seemed a bit far fetched. It also had a harsher tone on occasion than her usual up-beat feel-good work, especially the stories about her primary school nemesis Becky Johnson and arguments with her wife (show executive producer) Jax. There were some bits of brilliance and a few laugh out loud moments about her honeymoon in the Maldives, being her Moms substitute husband and previously living in a haunted house. As a fan I really wanted it to be fabulous, but at most it provided moderate entertainment.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE – Season 1, 2 & 3

Recently ending (forever) with series three ‘Somebody Somewhere’ is a remarkable exploration of life’s complexities. Bridget Everett delivers a stellar performance as Sam, a character who is both imperfect and kind-hearted. Despite her self-critical nature, she consistently supports those around her while trying to find where she fits after returning to small-town Manhattan, Kansas, following the death of her sister. The dynamic between besties Sam and Joel, portrayed by Jeff Hiller, is relatable and endearing. Their engaging banter, along with the warmth of their accepting and supportive group of friends, is so conversational that you’ll forget they are acting and will wish you were a part of their inner circle, having a laugh right along with them. Each character is perfectly cast and comes into their own in the least contrived way. Funny, endearing and down to earth, the rich themes of love, loss, kindness and accepting yourself are never preachy or forced.  IndieWire crowned this the best show in 2024, an accolade it absolutely deserves. You won’t want it to end – but at the same time, you’ll be smiling that it went out on a high. An absolute must see with season three as it’s cherry on top … and tell me you don’t cry in the finale.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

Amanda’s Score 10/10

JUROR #2

Nicholas Hoult stars alongside Toni Collette and Kiefer Sutherland in this courtroom drama directed by Clint Eastwood. Hoult portrays Justin Kemp, a juror involved in a murder trial. **SPOILER ALERT** As the trial progresses, Kemp grapples with the realisation that he inadvertently caused the victim’s death by hitting her with his car after a night of drinking. This forces him to confront a moral dilemma: should he convict an innocent man or confess to his actions and risk life in prison? Collette plays Faith Killebrew, the prosecutor and newly elected District Attorney, who finds herself at an ethical crossroads due to Kemps actions. Despite decent acting and average plot, I never felt fully invested in Kemps predicament. His build up as an every day family man was lacking and there was a disconnect there for me.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

BUY NOW! THE SHOPPING CONSPIRACY

“Buy more. Waste more. Lie more.” An eye opening and confronting doco examining the tactics companies use to encourage consumers to purchase an increasing array of products. The statistics for the number of different clothing styles produced each year by several big popular brands will flaw you! Did anyone say H&M at 4,414 or Shien at 314,877? Such excessive consumption leads to substantial waste and contributes to the pollution of our oceans, the overwhelming of landfills, and exacerbates global warming. The retailers highlighted in this documentary appear to wash their hands of product wastage as soon as a sale is made, and the items leave their factory, warehouse, or store. Makes you reflect on your own purchasing decisions. Do we really need more stuff? Or another iPhone to be released every year?

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

PIECE BY PIECE

Skilfully brought to life through the artistry of Lego stop motion and computer animation, ‘Piece by Piece’ is an inspiring autobiographical journey that celebrates the genius and accomplishments of Pharrell Williams. Opening with present day Pharrell pondering “What if nothing is new?”, as a teenager he set about creating a definitive style of futuristic beats and has since worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry – Jay Z, Gwen Stefani, Nicky Minaj, Busta Rhymes,Timberland, Snoop Dog, Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk, Missy Elliott, Kendrick Lamar, Alicia Keys, Pusha T, Stevie Wonder, and Madonna to name a few. Colourful and engaging, his story is a surprise package to the uninitiated. It will resonate with his current fanbase and introduce new audiences to his extensive array of musical achievements and successes. A hip hop and pop extravaganza for audiences over 13 years of age.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

COLD CASE: WHO KILLED JON BENET RAMSEY

Nearly 30 years have passed since six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey was tragically murdered in her Boulder, Colorado, home by an unknown intruder. Following her death, the media extensively covered her involvement in beauty pageants, while her parents John and Patsy Ramsey faced public scrutiny and were presumed guilty in the court of public opinion – despite the Police knowing they were cleared by DNA evidence in the early stages of the investigation. This three-part documentary exposes the narrow focus of the Boulder Police Department, which spent years concentrating their efforts on the Ramseys, allowing the true perpetrator to remain at large. Tragically, Patsy Ramsey succumbed to cancer in 2006. A review of the case that began in 2023 is still ongoing, with strong advocacy for DNA retesting of several items from the crime scene, including some that have never previously been analyse. Hopefully this review will see justice served and will provide resolution for the Ramsey family. The unjust and distressing nature of their daughter’s murder is a tragedy no parent should endure, especially while facing allegations of a crime they did not commit.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

HERETIC

Hugh Grant delivers a masterful portrayal of a psychopath in this religious thriller. When Seventh Day Adventists Sister Barnes (Sophie Baxter) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East) arrive at the residence of Mr. Reed (Grant), they are unaware that they are about to be ensnared in a disturbing and manipulative game of control. The performances by all three leads are exceptional. The first half of the film builds well, with the suspense skillfully enhanced by the sharp use of sound and silence. Unfortunately the latter half is less cohesive and the plot ventures into implausible territory. Still edge of your seat stuff if you suspend belief.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

BREAD AND ROSES

This documentary highlights the bravery of female activists who are fighting the injustices perpetrated by the Talib*n in Afghanistan. Since the Talib*n’s takeover of Kabul in August 2021, the rights of women have been systematically eroded, restricting their ability to work, pursue education, and leave their homes without a male chaperone. Among these courageous women is Zahara, a dentist who risks her life organising and participating in protests for basic rights of “Bread, work and education.” The demonstrations often result in violence, abuse, and arrest, highlighting the severe risks activists face when speaking out against the oppressive measures. Hundreds of women have been ruthlessly murdered, while others have been abducted or compelled to seek asylum in Pakistan. Produced by Jennifer Lawrence and Malala Yousafzai and directed by Sahra Mani, this film presents a poignant, unjust, and troubling examination of the subjugation of women under ter*orist rule. Dire and infuriating, it’s 2024 FFS.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

MONSTERS

This series is based on the true story of Lyle (Nicholas Chavez) and Erik Menendez (Cooper Koch) who killed their parents, José (Javier Bardem) and Mary Louise (Chloe Sevigny) in 1989. The brothers initially claimed that mob-related intruders were responsible for the crimes, however the police became suspicious and they were arrested seven months later when Erik confessed to his psychiatrist. During their initial court hearing the brothers alleged that they had suffered s*xual, emotional, and physical abuse from their parents. Due to a hung jury, a mistrial was declared but at their subsequent trial, they were both convicted of first-degree murder and received sentences of two life terms in prison each. The series consists of nine episodes and the first half focuses on the details of the crime, while the latter delves into their trials. Many scenes drag on unnecessarily without adding value and this detracts from the excellent performances of the actors. With thorough editing, the series could have been condensed by 50% and resulted in more impactful and cohesive episodes. Should’ve been more interesting but it got dull.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

DON’T MOVE

At her sons memorial site in a remote national park, grieving mother Iris (Kelsey Asbille Chow) encounters a seemingly innocuous stranger named Richard (Finn Wittrock.) Despite his normal demeanour, Iris soon senses danger when Richard parks his car too close to hers, effectively trapping her between the vehicles. Seizing the opportunity he injects her with a paralytic agent that will render her immobile and unable to speak within 20 minutes. She takes off running for her life, trying to escape the psychopathic serial killer who is relentlessly pursuing her. Will she be able to make it to safety before she becomes incapacitated? This film has moderate suspense and a decent premise, peppered with a few plot holes. Overall it’s is an adequate time passer.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.5/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

THELMA

When 93-year-old widower and grandmother Thelma Post (June Squibb) falls victim to a scam that costs her $10,000, she devises a plan to reclaim her funds. Aided by fellow senior citizen Ben (Richard Roundtree) the two embark on an adventure across Los Angeles in pursuit of the stolen money. Their journey is both poignant and humorous at times, with reminders about the resilience of the elderly, the importance of family, and the inevitability of aging. Squibb is delightful and an absolute stand out, in what feels like a saccharine Christmas movie.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.9/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

GLADIATOR II

In the wake of his town’s destruction by the Roman army and the tragic loss of his wife, Lucius (Paul Mescal), the son of Maximus, gets captured and is forced to fight as a gladiator in the Colosseum. The city is under the rule of the tyrannical twin emperors, Caracalla and Geta, who are running it into the ground. A rebellion is brewing, yet trust is scarce as the allure of power corrupts many. Lucius battles to survive in the hope of honouring his father’s vision of a unified Rome. Featuring strong performances from Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, and Connie Nielsen, this action-packed sequel is a sound, if not similar in plot, follow up to its 20+ year old counterpart. The costumes are grand and the sets are stunning. The audience’s gleeful, enthusiastic reactions to the Colosseum battles serve as a stark reminder of humanity’s depravity and cruelty. Got a bit lost with the motivations of Macrinus (Washington) and cringed at the use of a real monkey chained at the neck and wearing a nappy playing Dundas. Mescal proves he can hold his own as a leading man in a blockbuster, big-budget action flick. Expect some gore, along with an abundance of sta*bings and beatings. Not perfect or intellectual but definitely entertaining.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.9/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

VENOM: THE LAST DANCE

The final installment of Marvel’s ‘Venom’ trilogy opens with Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) and his symbiote Venom (also Tom Hardy) on the run in Mexico. They set off for New York, only to realize they are being pursued by a Xenophage, an extraterrestrial creature who preys on symbiotes. Meanwhile, Area 51 is being decommissioned and researcher Dr. Teddy Payne (Juno Temple) is trying to investigate the purpose of symbiotes on Earth as part of a project called Imperium. She is hindered by Imperium manager and soldier Rex Strickland (Chiwetel Eniofor) who wants to capture Eddie and Venom. Adding to the mix is a free-spirited hippy family traveling in a Kombi van, led by alien-enthusiast Martin Moon (Rhys Ifans.) The bromance between Eddie and the often chaotic and impulsive Venom provides the most humour. Solid special effects, an acceptable script and decent pacing contribute to this engaging good-vs-evil super hero (or is that anti hero?) adventure. I expected to be entertained and I was. The end of an era.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.9/10

HERE

Uniquely filmed from a singular vantage point, this movie offers a glimpse into the living room of a century-old house that houses several generations. Starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright Penn in a heartfelt ‘Forrest Gump’ cast reunion, it beautifully captures the ebb and flow of family life as members, couples, and children come and go. The living room evolves alongside its inhabitants, embodying many changes over time. This wholesome and relatable film may not be a big budget action flick, but it more than compensates with its strong storytelling and wonderful creativity. Nostalgic and endearing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

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